September 16, 2009 > Letter to the Editor: U.S. Congressman Pete Stark and constituents of the 13th District

Letter to the Editor: U.S. Congressman Pete Stark and constituents of the 13th District

Pete, you had an "Open Forum" at the Senior Center in Fremont in August, according to news reports you have had 1,200 "Town Meetings." Pete, you are less politically popular than you have ever been - please realize your position. In light of this, you should understand this single "Town Letter."

The real stories of individuals presenting health and insurance problems were compelling BUT you as our representative in congress are less convincing. Democrats, working class citizens, small business and Republicans are asking "How can Obama pay for this new Health Care?"

At this time, both political parties need to create a viable answer rather than just pushing something through to meet a schedule. Pete do you believe you can force us to accept Obama's plan even though it won't be funded?

Everyone realizes a change is necessary so let the process work in a timely fashion. Health Care for MY patients has always been a priority. The answer is to capitalize on physicians no longer active in the practice of medicine or health care to come up with the solution. Physicians can and will address the problems they have experienced with insurance companies, hospitals and greedy people.

As a practicing physician for over 40 years and one of the "originals" when Washington Township Hospital opened its doors in 1958, it is apparent to me that the result of Obama-care would be continuation and escalation of overpaid hospital CEOs dictating the practice of medicine and continued employment of illegal - under California law - physicians. This "side-flow" is currently occurring and expanding! What has happened to the Hippocratic Oath governing ethical behavior? Doctor-Patient relationships are the key to effective health care.

Secondly, Pete, as a U.S. Congressman for the 13th District, you must oppose the proposed closing of Mission San Jose (MSJ) Post Office in Fremont. The MSJ Post Office is one of the oldest, if not the oldest and best in your District. MSJ Post Office is a family affair between Postmaster Ralph Bell and Staff with local citizens and post office box holders.

If readers of this letter agree, I urge you to send your sentiments to the following: